Gary J. Skinner Libri

Ants inhabit diverse environments, from gardens to mountaintops, with the highest diversity found in tropical regions. The 61 species present in Britain and Ireland are equally fascinating and ecologically significant. As social insects, ants offer intriguing life histories and play a vital role in their ecosystems. This edition explores the biology and ecology of regional species, featuring photographs and descriptions of all 61 species along with distribution maps. It also includes accounts of exotic species that may appear in heated buildings. The book presents extensively illustrated keys for identifying workers, queens, and males, marking the first comprehensive keys since the original edition 30 years ago. Quick-check keys for workers and nests, a detailed list of kit suppliers, and an extensive reference list are also provided. Ants, among the most recognizable insects, have a much larger ecological impact than their size suggests. This book serves as a resource for anyone interested in learning about these captivating insects and encourages readers to apply the discussed methods to make new discoveries.